My FIRST Monday Made It!

As most of the modern world already knows, my sweet friend, Tara, hosts a linky party every Monday on her blog, 4th Grade Frolics. It's called Monday Made It, and I am surprised and awed each week by the variety of things that people create.

Now I am not the crafty sort. I have said many times: My craftivity score is -17. I can manage straight lines with my ancient paper cutter and I remain in awe of Ladybug Kristen and her circles. I have neither modged nor podged, and my only trip to a scrap-booking store was to purchase a burnishing tool that made straight creases in folded cardstock!

So, I woke up this morning reflecting: "I must MAKE something! What can I MAKE?"

Baby steps... Baby steps...

First I decided that I would MAKE some coffee. This is something I know how to do! But I didn't think that would count for Monday Made It.

I had to finish cutting the numbers that label the tables in my classroom. And I had four different tasks going at once--including a task of making a task list! After that effort, it was pretty clear that I could MAKE a mess.

You can tell from the picture above that I was formulating a plan...

A-Ha! I could add a little pizazz to my "Go Home" system.  This is something I could MAKE and share. I acknowledge there is little more than printing, cutting and folding--but it's a start, right?

The folders initially come with little tabs. I have never figured out how to print on those, so I developed my own system. First I made a series of rectangles that matched the size of the tabs. Then I printed the names on what would be the bottom "half" of the rectangles, and then raised the print up just the tiniest bit. I run these off on cardstock because, once folded, the thickness makes them stay in the divider tabs without sliding out. I cut the name tags with the paper cutter. I confess that I cut inside the lines so there are no "edges" showing (That's just the OCD talking...)

Being obsessed with having all things cut and folded straight, I made a template the size of the tab and marked the center. then I used a fancy, expensive always available tool: a T-pin (or a push pin, or a straight pin... usually whatever has tangled itself into my carpet!)

I fold the name tags and insert them into the divider tabs. I alternate the colors of the tabs and folders to make it easier for the kids to alphabetize (which seems to have become a vanishing skill).

I made a label--my first real creation with "digital papers." (After eleven tries, just the label could have been the subject of Made It Monday!) The paper is from Just Jens Creations. I attached the label with padded adhesive strips because the circles are a little raised above the surface of the box.

And now it's finished! The "Go Home" mailbox is ready to go, awaiting those first day papers to be taken home. And I finally have something to share for Made It Monday... 

Click on the link below to see some really fantastic crafts and creations. Add it's time for you to get your craft on and join Tara's linky party... because it will be a lot more fun if YOU'RE there too!